Grand Slam Helps RedHawks Blast Memphis

The Oklahoma City RedHawks are now 7-2 on the season after Fernando Martinez blasted a grand slam in the eighth to boost OKC over Memphis 11-3.

OKC fell behind early in the contest, but regained the lead thanks to a three-run fifth inning. Angel Sanchez singled in Brian Bixler and tied the game 2-2 then Fernando Martinez belted a two-run home run to right field on the next pitch for a 4-2 advantage.

Oklahoma City added three more runs in the sixth inning. Jordan Lyles drove in two runs with a double to centerfielder making it 6-2.

Brian Bixler then singled in Landon Powell for a 7-2 score.

The RedHawks put the game away in the eighth inning when Martinez belted a grand slam home run off reliever Maikel Cleto for an 11-2 lead.

The Redbirds added a final run in the eighth when Ryan Jackson doubled to score Pete Kozma for an 11-3 final.

Martinez extended his season-opening hitting streak to nine games with two home runs, including his grand slam while

Lyles delivered seven solid innings and is now 2-0 on the year. In all, Lyles allowed two earned runs and three hits with seven strikeouts, ten groundouts and one fly out.

Memphis' Shelby Miller (0-2) allowed four earned runs and six hits in five innings in the losing decision.

The RedHawks and Memphis will square off again on Saturday at 6:05 p.m.